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Y Gavriel Ansara

Gávi graduated from the University of Surrey with both an MSc and PhD in Psychology. He is internationally recognised as a leading scholar on intersex, trans, and non-binary gender health, as a health policy consultant at government level, and as an advocate for LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer) equality.He won the Vice-Chancellor’s Alumni Achievement Award for 2016 for his outstanding contribution to policies and standards around international human rights and social justice.

Course

Psychology

"My award-winning research explores the ideology of cisgenderism (prejudicial ideology about people who designate their own genders in ways that differ from their gender assignments).

My approach is interdisciplinary, and during my collaborations with scholars at other universities I have noticed something remarkable and unique about my education at Surrey – the rigorous training in critical thinking and the integration of creative innovation with practical, evidence-based science. This combination is rare and has already made me a valued member of several international projects in research and policy.

While here, I have worked as a mentor for students with Asperger’s Neurotype and as a support worker for a PhD student with total visual impairment. I also took an active role in the redesign of the Department’s tutorial programme, helping to make it more of a student-led curriculum that focuses on the development of critical-thinking skills. This experience has inspired me greatly and helped me to understand how students can overcome barriers to success. I was honoured to receive the National Psychology Postgraduate Teaching Award in recognition of this work.

Whatever I do in my career, I will be able to use the skills that I have acquired at Surrey to address inequalities and to make a positive difference in communities. I moved from the other side of the world to come here, and it was one of the best life decisions I have ever made."